This savory zucchini and beef casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. The combination of tender zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy egg mixture creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to use up a surplus of zucchinis or simply want to try something different, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- Zucchini adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture to the casserole.
- 8 eggs
- Eggs bind the ingredients together, creating a custard-like filling.
- Salt, to taste
- Enhances the flavor of the ingredients.
- Black pepper, to taste
- Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Nutmeg adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements the savory flavors.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Cheddar cheese brings a rich, sharp flavor and gooey texture to the casserole.
- 2 lbs (about 900 grams) ground beef
- Ground beef provides a hearty, meaty base for the casserole.
- 1 onion, diced
- Onion adds a sweet and savory depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
- Rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs well with beef.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Tomato paste enriches the beef mixture with a concentrated tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Ketchup adds sweetness and tang, balancing the savory elements.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds and set them aside. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices, but a knife works just as well.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. As the beef cooks, break it up into small pieces using a spatula.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped rosemary, tomato paste, and ketchup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the beef mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Once fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Once well combined, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Arrange the sliced zucchinis in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the zucchini slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the zucchini and egg layer.
- Top with the remaining zucchini slices and pour the rest of the egg mixture over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
- If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
7. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal with a side salad or crusty bread.
Tips for Success
- Zucchini Moisture: Zucchinis can release a lot of water during cooking, which might make the casserole watery. To avoid this, you can lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel before assembling the dish.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese adds a sharp flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or Parmesan for an extra savory kick.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the fully cooked and cooled casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
This casserole is a protein-rich, low-carb meal that is also satisfying and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. It will change the flavor slightly, but it’s still delicious.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! This casserole is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, you can omit the ground beef and replace it with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
- The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can insert a knife or toothpick in the center to check; it should come out clean.
Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together the goodness of zucchini, the richness of beef, and the creaminess of cheese in one perfect bake!
Conclusion
This Zucchini and Beef Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. The combination of fresh zucchini, savory ground beef, and cheesy eggs makes for a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, brunch, or as a make-ahead meal, it’s sure to be a hit. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this dish a go-to recipe when you want something hearty and comforting.